Travel Agent Schools in Texas

Travel agents are highly important professionals who work in a field with a huge global impact. The work that they do on a day-to-day basis can promote tourism and support local economies all around the world.

Aspiring travel agents in Texas may look forward to incredible rewards for their efforts once they begin their careers. To begin on the right path, however, candidates must go through some steps and fulfill some requirements.

The purpose of the guide below is to outline all of these steps in an easy way to understand and follow. We hope that by the time readers are through, they will have a clear idea of what they need to do to begin great careers as travel agents and enjoy a long, successful time on the job.

How to Become a Travel Agent in Texas

Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the process required to become a travel agent in Texas.

Basic Requirements

Texas travel agents typically start their careers by having a high school diploma or GED and attending a training program. They are also expected to develop transferable interpersonal, planning, budgeting, and communication skills.

Becoming Familiar with the Travel Industry

Even before enrolling in a training program, an aspiring travel agent in Texas should have acquired some understanding of the travel industry. This includes knowledge of geography and itinerary on a fundamental level.

Getting Formal Training

An aspiring travel agent needs to acquire relevant training in their fields. They may do so by spending a few months to two years in a trade school.

They may also choose to enroll in four-year programs and earn a bachelor’s degree instead.

Becoming Certified

Certification is optional for travel agents in Texas. Those who earn it do so because it offers several career opportunities.

Employers tend to gravitate towards agents who are already certified, while certification also gives access to continuing education resources and professional networking opportunities.

Finding a Host Agency

After acquiring the necessary expertise to carry out their duties, and possibly after choosing a specialty area, a fresh travel agent in Texas may concern themselves with securing job placement at a host agency.

Host agencies provide resources, including booking systems, IATA numbers, partner programs, marketing tools, and more advanced training.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

Texas travel agents are expected to receive a license from the state after they can practice legally. However, they are expected to have a unique IATA number.

A travel agent may utilize an IATA number provided by their host agency if they do not have an agency.

As for certification, as mentioned above, agents are encouraged to have one simply due to the sheer number of benefits and opportunities it provides.

The American Society of Travel Advisors, the International Air Transport Association, the Travel Industry Designator Service, and the Cruise Lines International Association are some of the most prominent options to consider.

Top Travel Agent Schools in Texas

Aspiring travel agents in Texas may consider the schools below for top-class education.

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Salary & Career Outlook

In Texas, an average travel agent who falls among the midpoint of earners will typically earn around $64,223 yearly. Those among the highest paid in the state will make an annual average salary of at least $93,135, while those who find themselves among the lowest paid will still take home an annual average salary close to $44,286.

The best locations to work as a travel agent in Texas include Fort Worth, with an annual average salary of $78,026; El Paso, with an annual average salary of $71,565; and San Antonio, with an annual average salary of $65,995.

Austin, with an average annual salary of $59,087, and Dallas, with an average annual salary of $58,751, are among the top five. Houston is just outside the top five, with an annual average salary of $49,183.